So you want the facts!

I just wanted to thank you and your staff for your openness in respecting the opinions of others as you post them to your Letters page. I read a recent letter from a woman who seemed upset by a letter written by Bud Wilkinson. I thought her letter was immensely revealing. From her demeanor, I wasn’t sure if we senior folks should apologize for the way we view things today, or if we should simply get out of the way and let the intellectuals steer our country in the direction they believe will most benefit themselves.

You see, Mr. Wilkinson and I come from a different America than the America we see today. Although I perceive we seniors are considered obsolete and have lost our right to express our opinions, we come from an America that confidently believed in itself. An America that has identified historically with patriotism achieved through a proud heritage, and strong values. We have experienced in our lifetimes a nation forged by the sacrifices of men and women who believed they could achieve a better life through sweat, toil, and personal effort.

Oh, I know there have been serious iniquities. Having taught history in the public school system for many years, I am well aware of our nation’s shortcomings. Regrettably, I have also seen the rewriting of our history to emphasize those shortcomings at the expense of notable and positive achievements. It’s no wonder our children have little appreciation for America as a land of opportunity and personal freedom.

But I do sense a frustration in your letter with our lack of appreciation for your president, a man who reflects no understanding of our American heritage, traditions or values. Throughout the past four years it has been clearly evident to us that your president has stood against everything we Americans throughout history have fought, died, sacrificed for, and built with our hands for the benefit of future generations.

Perhaps, young lady, it’s your generation having little appreciation for the America of Mr. Wilkinson and myself, that leads to your intolerance of our view of America. By the way my dear, we earned our Social Security through years of paying into the system. Social Security for us is not a free hand-out. And that’s a fact!